Sharpening apparatus

ABSTRACT

A sharpening apparatus. A cylindrical body having a first cylindrical body end and a second cylindrical body end, the cylindrical body defining a bore extending from the first cylindrical body end to the second cylindrical body end. A cylindrical shaft comprising a first shaft end and a shaft second, the first shaft end defining a first shaft bore and the second shaft end side defining a second end bore. A first tubular member adjacent the first shaft end and the first cylinder body side and a second tubular member adjacent the second shaft end and the second cylinder body side. A first wheel comprising a first wheel stem, wherein the first wheel stem engages the first shaft bore defined by the cylindrical shaft. A second wheel comprising a second wheel stem, wherein the second wheel stem engages the second shaft bore defined by the cylindrical shaft.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application, under 35 U.S.C. § 119, claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/346,308 filed on May 26,2022, and entitled “Sharpening Apparatus,” the contents of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to a sharpening apparatus. Moreparticularly, the present disclosure relates to a hand-held sharpeningapparatus that can be used to sharpen a cutting or spreading implement,such as a kitchen knife or other similar type of implement. Thissharpening apparatus enables a user to roll the sharpening apparatus tosharpen a cutting implement while the cutting implement is removablyengaged to a magnetic knife holder.

BACKGROUND

A cutting implement like a kitchen knife can become dull or not sharpover a period of use. Typically, to sharpen such a dull knife, awhetstone, sharpening stick, Bavarian sharpener, electric sharpener orsharpening stone may be used to sharpen and refine the blades of knifeby stroking the knifes blade repeatedly over a surface of the sharpeningapparatus.

This process of grinding and honing can present certain challenges. Forexample, some sharpening stones require certain maintenance or treatmentsuch as by way of a wetting or lubricating process with the addition ofbased honing oil or petroleum based honing oil or other substances. Inaddition, the traditional sharpening stone can be large and awkward andmay not be easy to store, so that many types of sharpening stones arecut and positioned on a knife sharpener base for convenient use.

Further, conventional knife sharpeners have certain disadvantages. Forexample, when using a conventional knife sharpener, a user typicallyneeds to use one hand to hold the knife sharpener base and, meanwhile,use the other hand to hold the knife. This other hand must then slidethe knife to be sharpened back and forth along the sharpening stone.This can sometimes present a potentially dangerous situation, especiallyfor inexperienced users of such sharpening devices. Therefore, thereremains a need for a new and improved design for a knife sharpener toovercome these types of potential problems and situations. Otherdisadvantages, inconveniences, and issues also exist with currentsharpeners and sharpening methods.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, the herein disclosed embodiments address the above, andother, disadvantages, inconveniences, and issues that exist with currentsharpeners and sharpening methods.

According to an exemplary arrangement, a sharpening apparatus comprisesa cylindrical body comprising a first cylindrical body end and a secondcylindrical body end, the cylindrical body defining a bore extendingfrom the first cylindrical body end to the second cylindrical body end.A cylindrical shaft comprising a first shaft end and a second shaft end,the first shaft end defining a first shaft bore and the second shaft endside defining a second shaft bore. A first tubular member residingbetween the first shaft end and the first cylinder body side. A secondtubular member provided between the second shaft end and the secondcylinder body side. A first wheel comprising a first wheel stem, whereinthe first wheel stem engages the first shaft bore defined by thecylindrical shaft. A second wheel comprising a second wheel stem,wherein the second wheel stem engages the second shaft bore defined bythe cylindrical shaft.

According to another arrangement, the second wheel comprises a firstsurface defining a spiral.

According to another arrangement, the cylinder comprises a beech wood,walnut wood, or oak wood treated surface.

According to another arrangement, the first shaft bore comprises atleast one beveled edge.

According to another arrangement, the bore extending from the firstcylindrical body side to the second cylindrical body side comprises acentral bore.

According to another arrangement, the cylindrical body comprises a borecomprising a unitary diameter.

According to another arrangement, the shaft comprises a stainless-steelshaft.

According to another arrangement, an outer diameter of the cylindricalbody is substantially equivalent to an outer diameter of the firstwheel.

According to another arrangement, the first shaft bore extends onlyalong a portion of a length of the cylindrical shaft.

According to another arrangement, the first shaft bore extendssubstantially along a length of the cylindrical shaft.

According to another arrangement, the cylindrical body comprises a logoscreen printed on at least one surface.

According to another arrangement, the first wheel comprises a firstsurface, this first surface comprising an abrasive diamond coated layer.According to another arrangement, the diamond layer comprises at least agrit size of D91.

According to another arrangement, the first wheel comprises stainlesssteel.

According to another arrangement, the first wheel rotates simultaneouslywith the second wheel.

According to another arrangement, the first wheel comprises a concavecutout along a radially extending portion of the first wheel. Accordingto another arrangement, an elastic member placed within the concavecutout.

According to another arrangement, the second wheel comprises a spiralraceway provided along a second surface of the second wheel. Accordingto another arrangement, the spiral raceway is milled into the secondsurface of the second wheel at approximately a 90-degree angle.

According to another arrangement, the first wheel comprises a secondsurface wherein a circular recess is milled along the second surface ofthe first wheel. According to another arrangement, the circular recessmilled along the second surface of the first wheel comprises a firstrecess diameter. According to another arrangement, the first tubularmember residing between the first shaft end and the first cylinder bodyside comprises a flange having a first flange diameter, wherein thefirst recess diameter is substantially equivalent to the first flangediameter.

According to another arrangement, the second wheel comprises a secondsurface wherein a circular recess is milled along the second surface ofthe second wheel.

According to another arrangement, the first wheel stem removably engagesthe first shaft bore defined by the cylindrical shaft.

Other embodiments also exist. The features, functions, and advantagescan be achieved independently in various embodiments of the presentdisclosure or may be combined in yet other embodiments in which furtherdetails can be seen with reference to the following description anddrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the illustrativeembodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrativeembodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, furtherobjectives and descriptions thereof, will best be understood byreference to the following detailed description of one or moreillustrative embodiments of the present disclosure when read inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a sharpening apparatus,according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the sharpening apparatusillustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 illustrates another perspective view of the sharpening apparatusillustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the sharpening apparatusillustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of a sharpening apparatus, such asthe sharpening apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 6 illustrates a cylindrical body for use with a sharpeningapparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIGS. 7A-C illustrate components of a cylindrical shaft for use with asharpening apparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated inFIG. 1 ;

FIG. 8 illustrates a tubular member for use with a sharpening apparatus,such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIGS. 9A-C illustrate various views of a first wheel for use with asharpening apparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated inFIG. 1 ;

FIGS. 10A-D illustrate various views of a second wheel for use with asharpening apparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated inFIG. 1 ;

FIGS. 11A-B illustrate side and cross-sectional views of an elasticmember for use with a sharpening apparatus, such as the sharpeningapparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative arrangementfor the sharpening apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 13 illustrates a cylindrical shaft for use with a sharpeningapparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated in FIG. 12 ;

FIGS. 14A-B illustrate perspective views of mounting block that may beused with a sharpening apparatus, such as the sharpening apparatusillustrated in FIG. 1 ; and

FIGS. 15A-D illustrate various views of mounting block that may be usedwith a sharpening apparatus.

While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way ofexample in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However,it should be understood that the disclosure is not intended to belimited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the intention is tocover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within thespirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description describes various features andfunctions of the disclosed systems and methods with reference to theaccompanying figures. The illustrative system and method embodimentsdescribed herein are not meant to be limiting. It may be readilyunderstood that certain aspects of the disclosed systems and methods canbe arranged and combined in a wide variety of different configurations,all of which are contemplated herein.

Further, unless context suggests otherwise, the features illustrated ineach of the figures may be used in combination with one another. Thus,the figures should be generally viewed as component aspects of one ormore overall implementations, with the understanding that not allillustrated features are necessary for each implementation.

Additionally, any enumeration of elements, blocks, or steps in thisspecification or the claims is for purposes of clarity. Thus, suchenumeration should not be interpreted to require or imply that theseelements, blocks, or steps adhere to a particular arrangement or arecarried out in a particular order.

By the term “substantially” it is meant that the recited characteristic,parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations orvariations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error,measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to skill in theart, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect thecharacteristic was intended to provide.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate perspective views of a sharpening apparatus 10according to an exemplary arrangement. Such a sharpening apparatus 10can be used for sharpening, grinding and/or polishing cutting tools, inparticular knives for use in the kitchen and household. Moreparticularly, the sharpening apparatus 10 relates to a device that canbe manually manipulated or rolled along a surface. Two sharpening orpolishing circular wheels or discs 400, 500 are rotatably attached andheld at each grip end. One of the wheels 400 may be used for sharpeningwhereas the second wheel 500 may be used as a finishing step forpolishing or refining the sharpened blade.

With such a sharpening apparatus 10, each wheel or disc 400, 500 isconfigured to rotate or roll on a surface and rotate with respect to thecylindrical body or handle 100. Rotation of both wheels 400, 500 andtherefore blade sharpening occurs when the user places this rollergrinder on a generally planar surface and grips the handle 100 andtherefore moves the sharpening apparatus back and forth on this surface.To position the knife and therefore blade of the knife properly and at acorrect angle, the knife is removably attached to a mounting block. Inthis manner, the blade will reside at the proper angle and the rotatingwheels 400, 500 can therefore rotatably engage and therefore grind orsharpen the blade at the proper angle. As just one example, the cuttingimplement to be sharpened may be held in a mounting block, such as themounting block illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15 .

As noted, the sharpening apparatus 10 device comprises a first wheel 400and a second wheel 500. Each wheel will have a grinding or a polishingsurface. In one arrangement, the first wheel 400 may be configured as asharpening wheel or disc, for example an abrasive disc, which isattached to one end of an axis which is rotatably mounted in ahandpiece. At the other end of the axis a second wheel 500 is attached,which has the same diameter as the sharpening wheel 400, so that thesharpening device is stable and can roll on a flat surface. After theknife to be sharpened is clamped in position with respect to the flatsurface, the sharpening device 10 is rolled back and forth on thesurface with the end face of the sharpening disc resting on the cuttingedge of the knife to be sharpened and this cutting edge at an anglesuitable for cutting is sharpened.

If the sharpening apparatus is rolled along a surface, then the twowheels 400, 500 will rotate simultaneously and will also rotate relativeto the device body 10. If a cutting edge of the cutting tool is appliedto the first wheel and the device body is pulled over the surface inparticular by hand, then the grinding surface of the first rotating orrotating disc grinds the cutting tool edge.

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a mounting block 1000 for use with asharpening apparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated inFIG. 1 . According to one arrangement, this mounting block 1000comprises a magnetic grinding gauge with which the cutting tool to beground is releasably held at a desired cutting angle with respect to therotating grinding wheel.

The sharpening apparatus 10 is a hand-operated device for grindingand/or polishing a knife edge. Overall, such a design is provided thateach wheel can roll on a flat surface and rotate with respect to thehandle when the user has placed this roller grinder on this surface andgrips the handle and thus moves the roller grinder back and forth onthis surface which holds the knife to be treated in a definedarrangement, and one of the rotating disk surfaces contacts the cuttingedge and grinds or polishes. In a roller grinder set according to thepresent disclosure, in addition to the roller grinder, a positioningbody to be arranged on the flat base is provided. In one preferredarrangement, this positioning body is configured so that a releasablyattached knife to be treated can be held in a defined orientation sothat a rotating and rotating disc on this base can optimally grind orpolish the knife edge.

FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a sharpening apparatus 10of FIGS. 2-3 . As illustrated, the sharpening apparatus 10 comprises acylindrical body 100, a cylindrical shaft 200, a first tubular element300 a, a second tubular element 300 b, a first wheel 400, and a secondwheel 500. As illustrated, both the first wheel 400 and the second wheel500 are configured to receive an elastic member 600 a,b. FIG. 2illustrates another perspective view of the sharpening apparatus 10illustrating the first wheel 400. And FIG. 3 illustrates anotherperspective view of the sharpening apparatus 10 illustrating the secondwheel 500. FIG. 4 illustrates another cross-sectional view of thesharpening apparatus 10 and FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of thesharpening apparatus 10.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-5 , the sharpening apparatus 10 comprises acylindrical body 100 wherein this cylindrical body 100 extends from afirst cylindrical body end 110 and a second cylindrical body end 120.The cylindrical body defines a bore 130 that extends from the firstcylindrical body end 110 to the second cylindrical body end 120. Thesharpening apparatus 10 further comprises a cylindrical shaft 200 thatextends from a first shaft end 210 to a second shaft end 220. The firstshaft 300 at end 210 of the cylindrical shaft 200 defines a first shaftbore 230 and the second shaft end 220 defines a second end bore 240.

As illustrated, the sharpening apparatus 10 further comprises a firsttubular member 300 a. This first tubular member 300 a is positionedadjacent the first shaft end 110 and the first cylinder body side. Inaddition, a second tubular member 300 b is positioned adjacent thesecond shaft end 120 and the second cylinder body side. The sharpeningapparatus 10 further comprises a first wheel 400 comprising a firstwheel stem 420. The first wheel stem 420 is configured to engage thefirst shaft bore defined by the cylindrical shaft 200. The sharpeningapparatus 10 further comprises a second wheel 500 comprising a secondwheel stem 520. The second wheel stem 520 is configured to engage thesecond shaft bore defined by the cylindrical shaft 200. As indicated,embodiments of the sharpening apparatus may use threaded engagementbetween wheel stems 420, 520 and the shaft bore of cylindrical shaft200. Among other things, threaded engagement allows for a more secure,yet still removable, attachment of the wheels 400, 500. Other advantagesalso exist.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a cylindrical body 100 for usewith a sharpening apparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus 10illustrated in FIG. 1 . As illustrated, the sharpening apparatus 10comprises a cylindrical body 100 having a body that extends from a firstcylindrical body end 110 to a second cylindrical body end 120. Thecylindrical body 100 comprises an outer surface 102 and this cylindricalbody 100 defines an inner bore or cavity 130. In one arrangement, thisinner bore 130 extends from the first cylindrical body end 110 to thesecond cylindrical body end 120 and comprises a bore that is centrallylocated within the cylindrical body 100. In one arrangement, thecylindrical body 100 includes a bore comprising a unitary diameter or adiameter having a substantially constant diameter across at least aportion of the length of the cylindrical body 100.

The cylindrical body 100 may comprise a material such as a dark browncolored beech wood, walnut wood, oak wood, solid wood, surface treated,and also have a matte finish. As those of ordinary skill in the arthaving the benefit of this disclosure will recognize, alternativematerials may also be used. Preferably, the outer surface 140 of thecylindrical body 100 comprises an outer surface that is smooth.

In one preferred arrangement, the first end 110 and the second ends 120are substantially smooth and planar. As will be described herein, boththe first end 110 and the second end 120 are configured to guide orsupport a first wheel and a second wheel, respectively.

In one preferred arrangement, a symbol, trademark, or company logo maybe screen printed in a color, or otherwise placed, onto the cylindricalbody 100 to allow for branding, trademarking, advertising, and the like.In one exemplary arrangement, the cylindrical body 100 comprises acylindrical or tubular shape having a size having outer diameter ofapproximately between about 50 to about 55 mm. As just one example, theouter diameter of the cylindrical body 100 is substantially equivalentto an outer diameter of the first wheel or the second wheel of thesharpening apparatus 10.

In one arrangement, the cylindrical body 100 comprises an inner bore ofapproximately between about 15 to about 25 mm. In one preferredarrangement, the outer diameter of the cylindrical body 100 issubstantially the same size as the outer diameter of the first and thesecond wheel. In one preferred arrangement, the inner bore is a diameterthat is substantially the same size as the outer diameter of thecylindrical shaft 200.

In addition, the cylindrical body 100 has a length of approximatelybetween about 65 to about 75 mm. In one arrangement, the length of thecylindrical body 100 is substantially the same length as the cylindricalshaft 200. As those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit ofthis disclosure will recognize, alternative cylindrical body sizes andshapes may also be utilized.

In one preferred arrangement, an outer diameter of the cylindrical body100 is generally equivalent to an outer diameter of the first 400 andthe second 500 wheels (without rubber ring 600 a,b). In this manner, sothat the outer surface of the cylindrical body 100 and the outersurfaces of the first and second wheels are even with each other in theassembled configuration.

The sharpening apparatus 10 further comprises a cylindrical shaft 200,preferably a tubular elongated shaft. For example, FIG. 7B illustrates aperspective view, FIG. 7A illustrates a cross-sectional view, and FIG.7C illustrates and end view of a cylindrical shaft 200 for use with asharpening apparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus 10 illustrated inFIGS. 1-5 . The cylindrical shaft 200 may comprise a number of differentmaterials, preferably a material such as stainless steel, for examplecorrosion resistant stainless steel. The cylindrical shaft 200 furthercomprises an outer surface 205 which in one embodiment comprises asmooth outer surface. In one arrangement, the outer surface of thecylindrical shaft 200 comprises a matte finish.

The elongated shaft comprises a main body 205 that extends from a firstshaft end 210 to a second shaft end 220. In one preferred arrangement,both the first shaft end 210 and the second shaft end 220 aresubstantially smooth and are substantially parallel to one another. Asillustrated, the first shaft end 210 of the main body of the cylindricalshaft 200 comprises a first shaft bore 230. In this illustratedarrangement, the first shaft bore 230 extends a shaft bore length ofapproximately about 10 to about 12 mm along the body of the cylindricalshaft 200. In one preferred arrangement, the first shaft bore 230 doesnot extend along the entire length of the cylindrical shaft 200. Rather,the first shaft bore 230 only extends along a portion of the length ofthe cylindrical shaft 200.

Similarly, the second shaft bore 240 comprises a second shaft borelength of approximately about 10 to about 12 mm along the body of thecylindrical shaft 200. In one preferred arrangement, the second shaftbore 240 does not extend along the entire length of the cylindricalshaft 200. Rather, the second shaft bore 240 only extends along aportion of the length of the cylindrical shaft 200. In one arrangement,the length of the first shaft bore 230 is substantially the same lengthas the second shaft bore 240.

As illustrated, the first shaft bore 230 has an entry point 232 alongthe first shaft end wherein the entry point 232 comprises a beveled edgeor a chamfered edge 234. For example, this beveled edge 234 may comprisea symmetrical sloping edge. In one arrangement, the second bore 240 ofthe cylindrical shaft 200 residing at the second end of the cylindricalshaft 200 is similarly configured as the first shaft bore 230. That is,the second bore 240 extends along a portion of the length of thecylindrical shaft 200. As illustrated, both shaft bore 230 and 240 maybe threaded for engagement with wheel stems 420, 520.

One preferred arrangement, the cylindrical shaft 200 may have an outerdiameter of approximately 15 to about 20 mm. Each of the first shaftbore 230 and the second shaft bore 240 will have an inner bore diameterof approximately about 5 to about 10 mm. The outer diameter of thecylindrical shaft 200 may be configured to be slightly smaller than theinner bore diameter of the cylindrical body 100 illustrated in FIG. 6 .This slightly smaller outer diameter is sized in order to take intoaccount the thickness of the tubular wall of the tubular members thatare positioned between the outer surface of the cylindrical body 100 andthe outer surface of the cylindrical shaft 200 (see FIG. 4 ).

Each of the first shaft bore and the second bore shaft will have aninner bore diameter of approximately about 5 to about 10 mm. In onearrangement, the inner bore diameter of the first bore shaft and thesecond bore shaft are substantially equivalent. As will be explained ingreater detail herein, these inner bores function to engage the wheels.Specifically, the first bore 230 is configured to engage the first wheel400 and the second bore 240 is configured to engage the second wheel500. More specifically, the first bore 230 is configured to removablyengage a wheel stem 420 of the first wheel 400 and the second bore 240is configured to removably engage a wheel stem 520 of the second wheel500. In one preferred arrangement, these wheel stem and cylindricalshaft engagements occur by way of threaded connection. However, as thoseof ordinary skill in the art having benefit of this disclosure willrecognize, alternative engagement methods may also be utilized.

In one preferred arrangement, the cylindrical shaft 200 may comprise alength that is substantially equivalent to the length of the cylindricalbody 100. In one preferred arrangement, the cylindrical shaft 200 maycomprise a length that is slightly longer than the length of thecylindrical body 100. This slightly longer length of the cylindricalshaft 200 takes into account the size of the first tubular member 300 athat is seated near the first end 210 of the cylindrical shaft 200 andthe size of the second tubular member 300 b seated within the second end220 of the cylindrical shaft 200. In one arrangement, the cylindricalshaft 200 comprises a length of approximately 65 to about 75 mm.

For sharpening of a knife edge, a stable and straightforward motion ofthe rolling sharpener is advantageous. The grinding wheels 400, 500 areconnected via the cylindrical shaft 200 and can therefore be rotatedtogether, relative to the cylinder body 100. On the one hand, this makesit easier to guide the sharpening apparatus 10 in a straight line alongthe knife edge that gets sharpened. On the other hand, the grindingwheels 400, 500 are stabilized relative to the cylinder body 100, sothat tilting of the grinding wheels 400, 500 can be reduced andtherefore avoided.

The sharpening apparatus 10 further comprises a first tubular member 300a and a second tubular member 300 b. In one preferred arrangement, thefirst tubular member 300 a is substantially identical to the secondtubular member 300 b. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective viewof a tubular member 300 for use with a sharpening apparatus, such as thesharpening apparatus 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 . The tubular member300 may comprise a number of different materials, preferably a materialsuch as a low friction plastic. The tubular member 300 further comprisesan outer surface 302 which in one embodiment comprises a smooth outersurface. In one arrangement, the outer surface 302 of the tubular member300 comprises a matte finish.

The first and second tubular members 300 a, b act as a bearing thatconstrains relative motion to only the desired motion. In addition, thetubular members 300 a, b reduce friction between rotating components,including the wheels 400, 500, the cylindrical body 100, and thecylindrical shaft 200. In one preferred arrangement, the tubular memberscomprise a self-lubricating, grease free plastic material such as thoseprovided by igus motion plastics of Rumford, RI under the name ofIglide® (https://www.igus.com/info/plain-plastic-bearings), althoughother materials may also be used. The first and second tubular members300 a, b may be constructed in a similar manner.

As illustrated in FIG. 8 , the tubular member 300 extends from a firstend 310 towards a second end 320. The tubular member 300 comprises amain body 302 having an outer surface 305 and an inner surface 340. Themain body 302 extends from the second end towards the first end 310. Atthe first end 310 of the tubular member a collar or radially extendingflange 330 is provided. As illustrated, this flange 330 is generally ofa circular shape and has an outer diameter that is generally larger thanthe outer diameter of the body of the cylindrical shaft 200 (FIG. 7 ).

With the sharpening apparatus 10 in an assembled state as illustrated inFIG. 4 , the first tubular member 300 a will be seated over an end ofthe cylindrical shaft 200 and thereby positioned between the cylindricalshaft 200 and the cylindrical body 100. In this position, the radiallyextending flange 330 a of the first tubular member 300 a will residebetween the cylindrical body 100 and the first wheel 400. Specifically,the radially extending flange 330 a will be seated within a recessdefined along the second surface 410 of the first wheel 400 and thecylindrical body 100.

Wheels

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 , the sharpening apparatus further comprisesa first wheel 400 and a second wheel 500. FIGS. 9A-C illustrate variousviews of the first wheel 400 for use with a sharpening apparatus, suchas the sharpening apparatus 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 . And FIGS.10A-D illustrate various views of the second wheel 500 for use with asharpening apparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus 10 illustrated inFIGS. 1-5 .

In one arrangement, the first and second wheels 400, 500 comprise asubstantially similar material. For example, such a material maycomprise stainless steel. Other material may also be used, such asAluminum, Copper, Steel, Brass, Titanium, Sterling Silver, Bronze, etc.And hard plastics and other materials: Nylon, Acetal, Polycarbonate,Polystyrene, Acrylic, Fiberglass, Carbon fiber, PTFE, ABS, and PVC. Inan arrangement, both wheels 400, 500 comprise a corrosion-resistantstainless steel. For example, wheels 400, 500 made of stainless steelare low-wear and can generally be manufactured with high precision andlow manufacturing tolerances.

The overall size and geometrical configuration of the first wheel 400may be substantially similar to the size of the second wheel 500. Forexample, the outer diameter, the thickness, and the geometrical shape ofthe first wheel, and the wheel stem may be substantially similar to thesecond wheel 500. As just one example, the size of the first wheel 400may be approximately about 50 to about 60 mm in diameter. Similarly, thesize of the second wheel 500 may be approximately about 50 to about 60mm in diameter.

FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective view of a first wheel 400. Asillustrated, the first wheel 400 comprises a substantially circular disk415 comprising a first or outer surface 405. The circular disk 415further comprises a second surface or inner surface 410. In thisillustrated embodiment, the first wheel 400 further comprises a firstwheel stem 420 that extends in a vertical direction away from the secondsurface 410. This first stem 420 is configured to engage the first shaftbore 230 defined by the cylindrical shaft 200.

In a preferred arrangement, the first surface 405 of the first wheel 400comprises an abrasive diamond coated layer 440 (see FIG. 9C). Forexample, the diamond coated layer 440 may comprise at least a grit sizeof D91. Other grit sizes may also be used.

As illustrated, the first wheel 400 further comprises a concave cutout460 that is provided along a radially extending portion of the disk ofthe first wheel 400. Preferably, this concave cutout 460 is machinedalong an outer surface 480 of this radially extending portion of thefirst wheel 400. This concave cutout 460 extends along the entirecircumference of the first wheel 400.

This concave cutout 460 is configured to operatively engage an elasticmember, such as the elastic ring 600 illustrated in FIGS. 11A-B. Whenoperatively engaged with this cutout 460, the elastic member 600 willallow the first and second wheels to rotate simultaneously. In anarrangement, an outer diameter of the cylindrical body 100 (FIG. 6 ) issubstantially equivalent to an outer diameter of the first wheel 400.For example, this outer diameter of the first wheel 400 may beapproximately 50 to about 60 mm. The elastic member 600 is sized so thatit must be slightly stretched in order to releasably and fixedly engagedthis cutout 460. For example, the elastic member 600 may have an outerdiameter of approximately 45 to about 55 mm, depending on the outerdiameter of the first and/or second wheel 400, 500.

In an arrangement, the second surface 410 of the first wheel 400comprises a recess 470 that is milled along the second surface 410. Sucha recess 470 may comprise a circular recess. For example, the circularrecess 470 milled along the second surface 410 of the first wheel 400may comprise a first recess diameter. As an example, this first recessdiameter may have a diameter of approximately 25 to about 35 mm. Withsuch a recess configuration, when the sharpening apparatus 10 isassembled for use as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 , the first tubular member300 a residing in between the first shaft end 210 and the first cylinderbody end 110 comprises a flange 310 a having a first flange diameter,wherein the first recess diameter is substantially equivalent to thefirst flange diameter.

FIG. 10A illustrates a perspective view of a second wheel 500. In anarrangement, the second wheel 500 is generally similar in constructionto the first wheel 400. As illustrated, similar to the first wheel 400,the second wheel 500 comprises a substantially circular disk comprisinga first surface 505 or outer surface. The circular disk furthercomprises a second surface 510 or inner surface. In this illustratedembodiment, the second wheel 500 comprises a second wheel stem 520 thatextends in a vertical direction away from the second surface 510. Thissecond wheel stem 520 is configured to engage the second shaft bore 240defined by the cylindrical shaft 200.

In a preferred arrangement, the first surface 505 of the second wheel500 comprises a spiral 540 which may be cut, etched, or otherwisemachined into the first surface 505. As disclosed herein, spiral 540enables, among other things, fine honing of the knife being sharpenedand allows any material removed from the knife edge a clear path toleave the knife. While shapes other than a spiral 540 may be used, thespiral 540 enables constant tracking along the knife edge as thesharpening apparatus rotates and moves in a linear direction along theknife edge. Other benefits also exist.

As illustrated, the second wheel 500 further comprises a concave cutout560 that is provided along a radially extending portion of the disk ofthe second wheel 500. Preferably, this concave cutout 560 is machinedalong an outer surface 580 of this radially extending portion of thesecond wheel 500. This concave cutout 560 extends along the entirecircumference of the second wheel 500.

This concave cutout 560 is configured to operatively engage an elasticmember, such as the elastic ring 600 illustrated in FIGS. 11A-B. Whenoperatively engaged with this cutout 560, the elastic member 600 willallow the first and second wheels to rotate simultaneously. In anarrangement, an outer diameter of the cylindrical body 100 (FIG. 6 ) issubstantially equivalent to an outer diameter of the second wheel 500.For example, this outer diameter of the second wheel 500 may beapproximately 50 to about 60 mm. The elastic member 600 is sized so thatit must be slightly stretched in order to releasably and fixedly engagedthis cutout 560. For example, the elastic member 600 may have an outerdiameter of approximately 45 to about 55 mm, depending on the outerdiameter of the first and/or second wheel 400, 500.

In an arrangement, the second surface 510 of the second wheel 500comprises a recess 570 that is milled along the second surface 510. Sucha recess 570 may comprise a circular recess. For example, the circularrecess 570 milled along the second surface 510 of the second wheel 500may comprise a first recess diameter. As an example, this first recessdiameter may have a diameter of approximately 25 to about 35 mm. Withsuch a recess configuration, when the sharpening apparatus 10 isassembled for use as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 , the second tubularmember 300 b residing in between the second shaft end 220 and the secondcylinder body end 120 comprises a flange 310 b having a first flangediameter, wherein the first recess diameter is substantially equivalentto the first flange diameter.

As configured in the sharpening apparatus 10 as assembled, the firstwheel 400 rotates simultaneously with the second wheel 500 as a userrotates the sharpening apparatus 10 over a surface. For example, torotate both first and second wheels 400, 500 of the sharpening apparatus10, a user places his or her hand on the cylindrical body 100. As theuser handles the cylindrical body 100 and rolls the apparatus 10 along asurface, the elastic members 600 a, b will frictionally engage thesurface and this engagement will allow the first and second wheels torotate. And since both the first wheel 400 and the second wheel 500 areoperatively coupled to the cylindrical shaft 200, both the first wheel400 and the second wheel 500 operate simultaneously as the cylindricalshaft 200 rotates. And then both the cylindrical shaft 200, the firstwheel 400 and the second wheel 500 rotate in unison.

As illustrated in FIG. 4 , there is a distance D between the first end110 of the cylindrical body 100 and the first or inner surface 410 ofthe first wheel 400 so that a sufficient amount of play or distance iscreated such that between the cylindrical body 100 and the two grindingwheels 400, 500 to ensure that the grinding wheels rotate relative tothe cylinder body. In one preferred arrangement, this distance D shouldbe as small as possible to prevent the penetration of dirt or moisturefrom the use in the kitchen.

The two outer surfaces of the wheels 400, 500 are used to restore asharp cutting edge. To achieve an optimum result, both grinding wheels400, 500 have different functions. As described herein, one side of thefirst wheel 400 is provided with a coarse diamond layer 440, which has agrit size of D91. This layer 440 is used for rough regrinding of thedulled or blunt blade. The diamond 440 is harder than stainless steel orother metal (blade) which results in a slight material removal and makesthe cutting edge sharper.

After the rough pre-grinding with diamond layer 440, an outer surface505 of the second wheel 500 is applied in the same process. This surfaceis made of stainless steel and has a spiral grained raceway 540. In onearrangement, this spiral-grained raceway 540 is milled into the surfaceat a 90% angle. This pattern 540 allows the already pre-sharpenedcutting edge to be honed even more effectively. When rolling, the spiral540 has the effect that the milled out circular areas touch the cuttingedge and allow an even finer removal of the blade material. This makesthe cutting edge finely ground and even sharper. Other advantages alsoexist.

Both wheels 400, 500 are connected to cylindrical shaft 200. In thepreferred embodiments disclosed herein a threaded or screw fit is used.However, as those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit ofthis disclosure will recognize, alternative connection methods andmechanism may also be utilized. In this way, the first and second wheels400, 500 can move or rotate together, so that it causes a stablestraight running of the sharpening apparatus 10 and a tilting of thewheels 400, 500 is avoided.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative arrangement ofa sharpening apparatus 700. As illustrated, the sharpening apparatus 700comprises a cylindrical body 100, a cylindrical shaft 850, a firsttubular element 300 a, a second tubular element 300 b, a first circulardisk 800 a, a first wheel 900 a, a second circular disk 800 b, and asecond wheel 900 b. As illustrated, both the first circular disk 800 aand the second circular disk 800 b are configured to receive the elasticmembers 600 a, b, respectively. The cylindrical body 10, the cylindricalshaft 200, the first tubular element 300 a, the second tubular element300 b, and the elastic members 600 a, b illustrated in FIG. 12 aresubstantially similar to those same items as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 .

Referring now to FIG. 12 , the sharpening apparatus 700 comprises acylindrical body 100 wherein this cylindrical body 100 extends from afirst cylindrical body end 110 and a second cylindrical body end 120.The cylindrical body defines a bore 130 that extends from the firstcylindrical body end 110 to the second cylindrical body end 120. Thesharpening apparatus 10 further comprises a cylindrical shaft 850 thatextends from a first shaft end 860 and a shaft second 880. The firstshaft end 860 of the cylindrical shaft 850 defines a first shaft bore830 and the second shaft end 880 defines a second shaft bore 840.

As illustrated, the sharpening apparatus 700 further comprises a firsttubular member 300 a. This first tubular member 300 a is positionedadjacent the first shaft end and the first cylinder body side. Inaddition, a second tubular member 300 b is positioned adjacent thesecond shaft end and the second cylinder body end. The sharpeningapparatus 700 further comprises a first wheel 900 a comprising a firstwheel stem 920. The first wheel stem 920 is configured to engage thefirst shaft bore 830 defined by the cylindrical shaft 850. Thesharpening apparatus 700 further comprises a second wheel 900 bcomprising a second wheel stem 930. The second wheel stem 930 isconfigured to engage the second shaft bore 840 defined by thecylindrical shaft 850.

As illustrated, the sharpening apparatus 700 further comprises a firstcircular disk 800 a and a second circular disk 800 b. In onearrangement, the first circulate disk 800 a is positioned between thefirst wheel 900 a and the first end of the cylindrical body 100. In thisconfiguration, the stem 920 of the first wheel 900 a is configured toextend through an aperture defined by the first circular disk 800 a.Similarly, in this configuration, the stem 930 of the second wheel 900 bis configured to extend through an aperture defined by the secondcircular disk 800 b.

The sharpening apparatus 700 further comprises a cylindrical shaft 850,preferably a tubular elongated shaft. For example, FIG. 13 illustrates aperspective view of a cylindrical shaft 850 for use with a sharpeningapparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated in FIG. 12 .

The elongated shaft 850 comprises a main 852 body that extends from afirst shaft end 860 to a second shaft end 880. In one preferredarrangement, both the first shaft end 860 and the second shaft end 880are substantially smooth and are substantially parallel to one another.As illustrated, the first shaft end 860 of the main body of thecylindrical shaft 850 comprises a first shaft bore 865. In thisillustrated arrangement, the first shaft bore 865 extends a shaft borelength of approximately about 10 to about 12 mm along the body of thecylindrical shaft 850. In one preferred arrangement, the first shaftbore 865 does not extend along the entire length of the cylindricalshaft 850. Rather, the first shaft bore 865 only extends along a portionof the length of the cylindrical shaft 850.

Similarly, the second shaft bore 885 extends a second shaft bore lengthof approximately about 10 to about 12 mm along the body of thecylindrical shaft 850. In one preferred arrangement, the second shaftbore 885 does not extend along the entire length of the cylindricalshaft 850. Rather, the second shaft bore 885 only extends along aportion of the length of the cylindrical shaft 850. In one arrangement,the length of the first shaft bore 865 is substantially the same lengthas the second shaft bore 885. In one arrangement, the second bore 885 ofthe cylindrical shaft 850 residing at the second end of the cylindricalshaft 850 is similarly configured as the first shaft bore 865. That is,the second bore 885 extends along a portion of the length of thecylindrical shaft 850.

One preferred arrangement, the cylindrical shaft 850 may have an outerdiameter of approximately 15 to about 20 mm. Each of the first shaftbore 865 and the second shaft bore 885 will have an inner bore diameterof approximately about 5 to about 10 mm. The outer diameter of thecylindrical shaft 850 may be configured to be slightly smaller than theinner bore diameter of the cylindrical body 100 illustrated in FIG. 6 .This slightly smaller outer diameter is sized in order to take intoaccount the thickness of the tubular wall of the tubular members thatare positioned between the outer surface of the cylindrical body 100 andthe outer surface of the cylindrical shaft 850.

Each of the first shaft bore and the second bore shaft will have aninner bore diameter of approximately about 5 to about 10 mm. In onearrangement, the inner bore diameter of the first bore shaft and thesecond bore shaft are substantially equivalent. As will be explained ingreater detail herein, these inner bores function to engage the wheels.Specifically, the first bore 865 is configured to engage the first wheel900 a and the second bore 885 is configured to engage the second wheel900 b. More specifically, the first bore 865 is configured to removablyengage a wheel stem 920 of the first wheel 900 a and the second bore 885is configured to engage a wheel stem 930 of the second wheel 900 b. Inone preferred arrangement, these wheel stem and cylindrical shaftengagements occur by way of a threaded engagement. However, as those ofordinary skill in the art will recognize, alternative engagement methodsmay also be utilized.

In one preferred arrangement, the cylindrical shaft 850 may comprise alength that is substantially equivalent to the length of the cylindricalbody 100. In one preferred arrangement, the cylindrical shaft 850 maycomprise a main body length that is slightly longer than the length ofthe cylindrical body 100. This slightly longer length of the main bodyof the cylindrical shaft 850 takes into account the size of the firsttubular member 300 a that is seated near the first end of thecylindrical shaft 850 and the size of the second tubular member 300 bseated within the second end of the cylindrical shaft 850. In onearrangement, the cylindrical shaft 850 comprises a length ofapproximately 65 to about 75 mm.

As illustrated, the sharpening apparatus 700 further comprises a firstcircular disk 800 a and a second circular disk 800 b.

As illustrated, the first circular disk 800 a further comprises aconcave cutout 810 that is provided along a radially extending portionof the disk of the first circular disk 800 a Preferably, this concavecutout 810 is machined along an outer surface of this radially extendingportion of the first circular disk 800 a. This concave cutout 810extends along the entire circumference of the first circular disk 800 a.

This concave cutout 810 is configured to operatively engage an elasticmember, such as the elastic ring 600 illustrated in FIG. 11 . Whenoperatively engaged with this cutout 460, the elastic member 600 willallow the first and second wheels 900 a,b to rotate simultaneously. Inan arrangement, an outer diameter of the cylindrical body 100 (FIG. 6 )is substantially equivalent to an outer diameter of the first circulardisk 800 a. For example, this outer diameter of the first circular disk800 a may be approximately 50 to about mm. The elastic member 600 issized so that it must be slightly stretched in order to releasably andfixedly engaged this cutout 810. For example, the elastic member 600 mayhave an outer diameter of approximately 45 to about 55 mm, depending onthe outer diameter of the first and/or second wheels 900 a, b.

In an arrangement, the second surface 822 of the first circular disk 800a comprises a recess 824 that is milled along the second surface 822.Such a recess 470 may comprise a circular recess. For example, thecircular recess 824 milled along the second surface 822 of the firstcircular disk 800 a may comprise a first recess diameter. As an example,this first recess diameter may have a diameter of approximately 25 toabout 35 mm. With such a recess configuration, when the sharpeningapparatus 700 is assembled for use as illustrated in FIG. 12 , the firsttubular member 300 a residing in between the first shaft end 860 and thefirst cylinder body end 110 comprises a flange 310 a having a firstflange diameter, wherein the first recess diameter is substantiallyequivalent to the first recess diameter.

The second circular disk 800 b is substantially similar in constructionas to the first circular disk 800 a. For example, the second circulardisk 800 b further comprises a concave cutout 820 that is provided alonga radially extending portion of the disk of the second circular disk 800b. Preferably, this concave cutout 820 is machined along an outersurface of this radially extending portion of the second circular disk800 b. This concave cutout 820 extends along the entire circumference ofthe second circular disk 800 b.

This concave cutout 820 is configured to operatively engage an elasticmember, such as the elastic ring 600 illustrated in FIG. 11 . Whenoperatively engaged with this cutout 820, the elastic member 600 willallow the first and second wheels to rotate simultaneously. In anarrangement, an outer diameter of the cylindrical body 100 (FIG. 6 ) issubstantially equivalent to an outer diameter of the second circulardisk 800 b. For example, this outer diameter of the first circular disk800 a may be approximately 50 to about 60 mm. The elastic member 600 issized so that it must be slightly stretched in order to releasably andfixedly engaged this cutout 460. For example, the elastic member 600 mayhave an outer diameter of approximately 45 to about 55 mm, depending onthe outer diameter of the first and/or second wheel 400, 500.

In an arrangement, the second surface 832 of the second circular disk800 b comprises a recess 834 that is milled along the second surface832. Such a recess 834 may comprise a circular recess. For example, thecircular recess 834 milled along the second surface 832 of the secondcircular disk 800 b may comprise a first recess diameter. As an example,this first recess diameter may have a diameter of approximately 25 toabout 35 mm. With such a recess configuration, when the sharpeningapparatus 700 is assembled for use as illustrated in FIG. 12 , the firsttubular member 300 a residing in between the first shaft end 860 and thefirst cylinder body end 110 comprises a flange 310 a having a firstflange diameter, wherein the first recess diameter is substantiallyequivalent to the first flange diameter.

With the sharpening apparatus 700 in an assembled state as illustratedin FIG. 12 , the first tubular member 300 a will be seated over an endof the cylindrical shaft 850 and thereby positioned between thecylindrical shaft 850 and the cylindrical body 100. In this position,the radially extending flange 330 a of the first tubular member 300 awill reside between the cylindrical body 850 and the first circular disk800 a. Specifically, the radially extending flange 330 a will be seatedwithin a recess defined along the second surface 822 of the firstcircular disk 800 a and the cylindrical body 100.

With the sharpening apparatus 700 in an assembled state as illustratedin FIG. 12 , the second tubular member 300 b will be seated over an endof the cylindrical shaft 850 and thereby positioned between thecylindrical shaft 850 and the cylindrical body 100 in a similar manner.In this position, the radially extending flange 330 b of the secondtubular member 300 a will reside between the cylindrical body 850 andthe second circular disk 800 b. Specifically, the radially extendingflange 330 b will be seated within a recess defined along the secondsurface 832 of the second circular disk 800 b and the cylindrical body100.

Wheels

As illustrated in FIG. 12 , the sharpening apparatus 700 furthercomprises a first wheel 900 a and a second wheel 900 b. In onearrangement, the first and second wheels 900 a, b comprise asubstantially similar material. For example, such a material maycomprise stainless steel. Other material may also be used, such asAluminum, Copper, Steel, Brass, Titanium, Sterling Silver, Bronze, etc.And hard plastics and other materials: Nylon, Acetal, Polycarbonate,Polystyrene, Acrylic, Fiberglass, Carbon fiber, PTFE, ABS, and PVC.

In an arrangement, both wheels 900 a, b comprise a corrosion-resistantstainless steel. For example, wheels 900 a, b may be made of stainlesssteel are low-wear and can generally be manufactured with high precisionand low manufacturing tolerances.

The overall size and geometrical configuration of the first wheel 900 amay be substantially similar to the size of the second wheel 900 b. Forexample, the outer diameter, the thickness, and the geometrical shape ofthe first wheel 900 a, and the wheel stem may be substantially similarto the second wheel 900 b. As just one example, the size of the firstwheel 900 a may be approximately about 50 to about 60 mm in diameter.Similarly, the size of the second wheel 900 b may be approximately about50 to about 60 mm in diameter.

In one arrangement, the first wheel 900 a comprises a substantiallycircular disk comprising a first or outer surface 905 a. The circulardisk further comprises a second or inner surface 907 a. In thisillustrated embodiment, the first wheel 900 a further comprises a firstwheel stem 920 that extends in a vertical direction away from the secondsurface 907 a. This first stem 920 is configured to engage the firstshaft bore defined by the cylindrical shaft 850. In a preferredarrangement, the first surface 905 a of the first wheel 900 a comprisesa spiral 940.

In an arrangement, the second wheel 900 b is generally similar inconstruction to the first wheel 900 a. As illustrated, similar to thefirst wheel 900 a, the second wheel 900 b comprises a substantiallycircular disk comprising a first surface or outer surface. The circulardisk further comprises a second surface or inner surface. In thisillustrated embodiment, the second wheel 900 b comprises a second wheelstem 920 that extends in a vertical direction away from the firstsurface 905. This second wheel stem 920 is configured to engage thesecond shaft bore defined by the cylindrical shaft 850.

In a preferred arrangement, the first surface 905 b of the second wheel900 b comprises an abrasive diamond coated layer as described herein.For example, the diamond coated layer may comprise at least a grit sizeof D91. Other grit sizes may also be used.

As configured in the sharpening apparatus 700 as assembled, the firstwheel 900 a rotates simultaneously with the second wheel 900 b as a userrotates the sharpening apparatus 700 over a surface. For example, torotate the both wheels 900 a,b of the sharpening apparatus 700, a userplaces his or her hand on the cylindrical body 100. As the user handlesthe cylindrical body 100 and rolls the apparatus 700 along a surface,the elastic members 600 a, b will frictionally engage the surface andthis engagement will allow the first and second wheels to rotate. Andsince both the first wheel 900 a and the second wheel 900 b areoperatively coupled to the cylindrical shaft 850, both the first wheel900 a and the second wheel 900 b operate simultaneously as thecylindrical shaft 850 also rotates. And then both the cylindrical shaft850, the first wheel 900 a, the first disk 800, the second wheel 900 b,and the second disk 800 b rotate in unison.

Magnet Gauge

FIGS. 14A-B and FIG. 15A illustrate perspective views of a knife holder1000 for use with a sharpening apparatus, such as the sharpeningapparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 . FIG. 15D illustrates a crosssectional view of a knife holder 1000 for use with a sharpeningapparatus, such as the sharpening apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 .Figure is a top view of a knife holder 100 in accordance with disclosedembodiments. As illustrated, the knife holder 1000 may comprise variousmaterials. In one preferred arrangement, the knife holder comprises amaterial of Beech Wood colored and may have the following approximatedimensions 87×58×25 mm.

As illustrated, the knife holder 1000 is used to hold a cutting tool(e.g., knife) to be ground or polished by means of magnetic force. Inaddition, the knife holder 1000 is used to properly position the bladeof a roller grinder.

As illustrated, the knife holder 1000 comprises a main body 1010 andthis main body 1010 is made of solid wood. The main body 1010 isconfigured with two ends, a first end 1020 and a second end 1030. Atboth the first and second ends define two different angularinclinations. These different angular inclinations represent therespective need of the knife to be sharpened. In one arrangement, thefirst angular inclination 1040 defines a 15 degree angle is used forsharpening western shaped knives, such as the European chefs knife. Inone arrangement, the second angular inclination 1050 defines a 20 degreeangle is usually used for steeper ground blades, often Japanese blades.Depending on whether the base grind of a knife is thin or wider, eitherthe 15 degree or 20 degree angle is used. The goal is to ensure theoptimum sharpening angle for the particular knife.

In one preferred arrangement, two neodymium magnets 1060 a,b are gluedor otherwise fastened into the wood on each side of the main body 1010of the knife holder 1000. A recess for each of these magnets may bedrilled by milling. These two magnets 1060 a,b allow the blades to beheld securely in the respective position for the grinding process.

When grinding the blades, material is removed from the blade steel andthus fine steel dust is produced. To prevent this from adhering openlyto the wood or the magnets, hard plastic pads 1050 are glued orotherwise fastened to both sides.

The description of the different advantageous embodiments has beenpresented for purposes of illustration and description and is notintended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the formdisclosed. Modifications and variations will be apparent to those ofordinary skill in the art. Further, different advantageous embodimentsmay provide different advantages as compared to other advantageousembodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen anddescribed in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments,the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in theart to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

What is claimed is:
 1. A sharpening apparatus comprising: a cylindricalbody having a first cylindrical body end and a second cylindrical bodyend, the cylindrical body defining a bore extending from the firstcylindrical body end to the second cylindrical body end; a cylindricalshaft having a first shaft end and a shaft second, the first shaft enddefining a first shaft bore and the second shaft end side defining asecond end bore; a first tubular member residing adjacent the firstshaft end and the first cylinder body side; a second tubular bearingresiding adjacent the second shaft end and the second cylinder bodyside; a first wheel comprising a first wheel stem, wherein the firstwheel stem engages the first shaft bore defined by the cylindricalshaft; and a second wheel comprising a second wheel stem, wherein thesecond wheel stem engages the second shaft bore defined by thecylindrical shaft and wherein the second wheel comprises a first surfacedefining a spiral raceway along an outer surface of the second wheel. 2.The sharpening apparatus of claim 1 wherein the cylindrical bodycomprises a beech wood, walnut wood, or oak wood treated surface.
 3. Thesharpening apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first shaft bore comprisesat least one beveled edge.
 4. The sharpening apparatus of claim 1,wherein the bore extending from the first cylindrical body end to thesecond cylindrical body end comprises a central bore.
 5. The sharpeningapparatus of claim 1, wherein the cylindrical body includes a borecomprising a unitary diameter.
 6. The sharpening apparatus of claim 1,wherein the cylindrical shaft comprises a stainless-steel shaft.
 7. Thesharpening apparatus of claim 1 wherein an outer diameter of thecylindrical body is substantially equivalent to an outer diameter of thefirst wheel.
 8. The sharpening apparatus of claim 1 wherein the firstshaft bore extends only along a portion of a length of the cylindricalshaft
 9. The sharpening apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first wheelcomprises a first surface, this first surface comprising an abrasivediamond coated layer.
 10. The sharpening apparatus of claim 9 whereinthe diamond layer comprises at least a grit size of D91.
 11. Thesharpening apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first wheel comprisesstainless steel.
 12. The sharpening apparatus of claim 1 wherein thefirst wheel rotates simultaneously with the second wheel.
 13. Thesharpening apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first wheel comprises aconcave cutout along a radially extending portion of the first wheel.14. The sharpening apparatus of claim 13 further comprising an elasticmember placed within the concave cutout.
 15. The sharpening apparatus ofclaim 1 wherein the spiral raceway is milled into the second surface ofthe second wheel at approximately a 90-degree angle.
 16. The sharpeningapparatus of claim 1 wherein the first wheel comprises a second surfacewherein a circular recess is milled along the second surface of thefirst wheel.
 17. The sharpening apparatus of claim 16 wherein thecircular recess milled along the second surface of the first wheelcomprises a first recess diameter.
 18. The sharpening apparatus of claim17 where the first tubular member residing between the first shaft endand the first cylinder body end comprises a flange having a first flangediameter; wherein the first recess diameter is substantially equivalentto the first flange diameter.
 19. The sharpening apparatus of claim 1,wherein the first wheel stem removably engages the first shaft boredefined by the cylindrical shaft.
 20. The sharpening apparatus of claim1, wherein the removable engagement of the first wheel stem and thefirst shaft bore is a threaded engagement.